The DACA program temporarily shields from deportation undocumented individuals who came to the country before the age of 16. About 780,000 people have received DACA status since the program’s inception in 2012.

Council President Frank Conner said the Trump administration's decision to halt the program will have an enormous impact on GRCC students.

"As faculty, it is our belief that Grand Rapids Community College is in existence to provide a safe and supportive environment for all people to learn, grow, and achieve their dreams," he said. "We recognize that each person who attends our college is unique and deserves the respect and resources required to succeed as a student. DACA provides this opportunity to a unique set of young people who were brought to the United States as minors, and who frequently have negligible ties to the countries from which they came."

Both GRCC's board of trustees and President Bill Pink have issued statements in support of the DACA program.

"We support GRCC leadership and the board of trustees in their declarations opposing the position of the Trump administration," Conner said. "We also demand that our congressional leaders act immediately to find a legislative solution ending the real and current damage this change in policy is having on our students, our community, and our nation."

The Faculty Council is comprised of the officers in the Faculty Association and an elected representative from each academic department or area.

Grand Rapids Community College has been offering educational opportunities in West Michigan for more than 100 years. Established in 1914, the college offers degree courses, certification and training programs, and workshops and personal enrichment classes. Offerings are held on GRCC’s downtown Grand Rapids campus, and at several locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties, as well as through distance learning.